Home Care-Helping your Parent after a Diagnosis of Parkinson’s

Home Care in Havana FL

Parkinson’s causes certain nerve cells within the brain to breakdown. This, in turn, limits the production of dopamine, a neurotransmitter produced within the brain that sends signals that controls movement and emotions. The disease is slow-moving, but it is progressive. The main symptoms are tremors, stiff movement and problems with balance and walking. As a family caregiver, helping your parent cope with the ever-changing environment associated with this disease is one of the greatest gifts you can give a parent with Parkinson’s.

Know What to Expect

Because of the varied symptoms associated with Parkinson’s and the very different way it affects one person to another, it is difficult to precisely determine what lies ahead. In some ways, it is detrimental to predict. While Mary, down the street, may no longer have any mobility, your parent may retain their mobility for years to come. Taking one day at a time and expecting the best can help you and your parent adopt a half-full glass kind of attitude. And attitude is everything when faced with this degenerative disease.

Mobility—Physically and Socially

As mobility declines, know when it’s time to get your parent help. This can include mobility aids such as walkers and canes as well as the aid of senior care providers. These professionals have cared for countless individuals facing this disease and know tips for communication as well as helping them stay as active as possible. They can accompany your parent on daily walks as well as provide transportation to the senior community center for social events and other outings. It’s important that your parent remain socially active and not stow themselves away in their home. At times, joining a Parkinson’s support group is very beneficial, giving them the opportunity to converse and become friends with those facing the same disease.

Be Patient

As Parkinson’s progresses, it’s important to remember that the changes you see in your parent are the result of a disease and not the result of a personality gone awry. It may take them much longer to perform certain activities and their own frustration may become evident. Resist the urge to jump in and finish the task for them. Take your time. Laugh. Enjoy these precious moments. When you find you need help, consider the services of a senior care provider who can assist with the daily activities of living such as bathing, dressing and preparing meals when it becomes too difficult for your parent to complete.

If you or an aging loved one are considering home care in Havana, FL, please call the caring staff at Hopewell In-Home Senior Care today at 850-386-5552. Providing Senior Care Services in North Florida.

Brian Moran, RN is both a Partner and Director of Marketing for Hopewell In-Home Senior Care. Brian has worked at the Bellevue Hospital in NYC, Tallahassee Community Hospital, Select Specialty Hospital and has over 12 years’ experience as a home health care nurse at American Home Patient. Since joining Hopewell In-Home Senior Care in 2008, Brian has used his knowledge of health care and local resources to help seniors in Tallahassee, FL navigate the medical resource maze. His goal is to assist seniors and their families by increasing awareness, affordability and quality of in-home caregiver services for those who wish to age in place.

Contact Us

When you fill out this form you can expect immediate information, pricing and communication with a caring staff member from our office.

Who Needs Care at Home?*

How Old is the Person Who Needs Care?*

Male or Female?*

What is their current living situation?*

Estimate How Much Care They Might Need*

What Type of Care is Needed? (Check all that apply)*

Light Meal Preparation

Light Laundry

Light Housekeeping

Companionship

Transportation to Appointments

Grocery Shopping

Errands

Bathing

Toileting

Medication Reminders

Respite Care

Hospice

How will care be paid for?*

Private Funds

Long-Term Care Insurance

Medicaid

Other - (VA Aid and Attendance, Reverse Mortgage, etc)

Many Senior In-Home Care services and products are not covered by insurance, Medicare, Medicaid or public assistance. Most individuals and families often need to pay "out-of-pocket" for some or all services requested. Are there other sources of financing available to you, such as Social Security benefits, VA benefits, or Private Funds?*